Easy Cream Cheese Chicken (Print Version)

Juicy chicken in creamy cheese sauce with garlic, onion, and herbs for a flavorful, simple meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
02 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
03 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - Salt, to taste
05 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Cooking Fats and Aromatics

06 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
09 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Sauce and Seasonings

10 - 3/4 cup chicken broth
11 - 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
13 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, to taste)

# Steps:

01 - Microwave the cream cheese until very soft. Cut into smaller pieces and set aside.
02 - Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
03 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter with olive oil. When hot, add chicken and sear for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove cooked chicken to a plate.
04 - Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Add chicken broth, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until mixture becomes a smooth sauce, about 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Return chicken cutlets to the skillet and coat with sauce. Gently simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through. If needed, thin sauce with additional chicken broth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve promptly.

# Notes:

01 - Use a thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety. Soften cream cheese thoroughly to guarantee a smooth sauce texture.